October is Transport Month in South Africa, but there is not much to celebrate as the country’s economy is paying the price for decades of underinvestment and neglect in its transport system.

Failing roads, crumbling railways and inefficient ports are costing the country billions of rands and undermining its global competitiveness, according to transport analyst Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki of the North-West University (NWU).

“Transport is the bloodstream of the economy,” says Dr Baikgaki from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. “Without efficient movement of goods and people, every sector from agriculture to manufacturing suffers.”

He warns that the country’s economic growth forecast of just 0,9% to 1,3% for 2025 will remain stagnant unless immediate reforms are implemented.

South Africa’s road network, responsible for most freight transport, faces a staggering R197 billion maintenance backlogs. Provincial and municipal roads remain underfunded and poorly maintained, while thousands of rural routes are left unpaved and unsafe. The rapid increase in vehicle ownership has not been matched by a proportional investment in road maintenance, resulting in worsening congestion and increased safety risks.

“The rail sector tells a similar story. Years of theft, mismanagement and vandalism have crippled rail capacity, forcing industries to rely on costly road alternatives,” said Dr Baikgaki. He estimates that this inefficiency causes daily losses of around R1 billion. “The rail system’s decline is not just a logistical issue, it’s an economic crisis,” he says.

He believes urgent action must focus on modernising infrastructure, investing in technology and strengthening maintenance systems. “Restoring rail freight, improving road safety and revitalising ports must be national priorities.”

The solution, according to Dr Baikgaki, lies in coordinated planning between the government and the private sector, supported by sustainable financing. He advocates for targeted investments in renewable energy-powered transport systems, improved public transport and transparent governance mechanisms to prevent corruption and project delays.

“Rebuilding South Africa’s transport backbone will boost investor confidence, enhance trade efficiency and unlock job creation,” he concludes. “Without a reliable and modern transport system, economic recovery will remain out of reach.”

Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki